Saenhuid
The term Saenhuid is the term used by and to reference all the nomadic people of Sembar, with it translating to "Sand People" in the tongue of Donhuid.
The Saenhuid people are split between those that are fully nomadic, and those that move migrate to different sites throughout the year. Then these groups are further broken down into the regions they inhabit and their tribes.
These tribes are rather diverse with each having unique views and traditions.
One common thing across most of the tribes that practise the old faiths is they are led by their tribal leader the Nuihuid, the archaic word for priest or holy man. These Nuihuids carry around a vessel containing a powerful spirit they have captured, they call upon this spirit in times of need. However this spirit isn't often willing, only helping to mentain its own survival.
Culture
Common Etiquette rules
Hospitality is highly valued among the Saenhuid. Offering water and sharing food are customary gestures of welcome. Additionally, respecting personal space is crucial in the nomadic lifestyle. Trading and bartering are conducted with a sense of fairness, and honesty is highly regarded. Greetings often involve inquiries about one's journey, health, and the state of their tribe or community.
Funerary and Memorial customs
Customs vary based on tribe, however a common one is when a member of a tribe passes away, their body is often laid to rest in the desert sands.
The deceased may be wrapped in traditional fabrics or placed in simple, biodegradable containers. Mourning periods involve communal gatherings, where stories of the departed are shared. Tribes may leave small, meaningful tokens in the sands as memorials, with the belief that the desert will preserve the memories.
Unlike most cultures they don't worry if the body is turned into an undead walker, as the Nuihuid tribal leader removes the spirit from the body bringing it into their tribal artefact.
Common Taboos
Wasting resources, especially water, is a severe taboo among the Saenhuid. Disrespecting the environment or engaging in actions that harm the delicate desert ecosystem is strongly condemned. Stealing or hoarding resources essential for survival is considered a betrayal to the tribe. Additionally, disrespecting tribal traditions or customs is viewed as a grave offense against the community.
Ideals
Beauty Ideals
Beauty among the Saenhuid is often associated with traits that reflect resilience and adaptation to the harsh environment. Sun-kissed skin, strong and agile bodies, and elaborate, traditional jewellery or accessories are considered attractive. Nomadic tattoos or body paint may also be seen as a symbol of beauty, each telling a personal or tribal story, however this tends to be more tribe specific.
Gender Ideals
In tribal society, genders aren't typically valued, rather there is a focus on strength, agility, and survival skills. Gender roles are often fluid, with individuals taking on roles based on their strengths and interests rather than strict societal expectations. Leadership roles are not restricted by gender, however those that sit further out the binary often are more likely to hold positions of authority as the tribal Nuihuid leader.
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